Waxing, plucking or threading your eyebrows is not the only way to shape them. It’s also important to use a gel or pencil for your arches. How can you possibly choose the right brow product, especially when there are so many choices available?
All of these products are designed to address a variety of eyebrow concerns, from arch to shape to fullness. That’s why it can be overwhelming to sift through all the options. What’s the difference between a pencil, gel or powder? It’s time to call in the experts. Joey Healy, a brow specialist, and Michele Holmes provided us with tips on how to use these products.
Brow Gel
Imagine brow gels like hairspray. Healy says that eyebrow gels help to keep your brows in position, give you the ability to style them in a pleasing way, and hold your hairs better. “People use eyebrows gels to control unruly hairs, and to give the brow more shape.”
Clear brow gels are used to shape the eyebrows. The tinted gels can also make hairs look thicker. Holmes says that tinted gels can be a miracle for people with light or blonde brow hair, or who are losing pigment (aka graying) because they deposit color quickly and bring your brows to life. Many tinted gels contain fibers or thickening agents to give the appearance of fuller brows.
Brow Pencil
The brow pencil can be used for filling in gaps and to shape the eyebrows precisely. Healy says that pencils work well for filling in specific gaps, holes and scars. They also help when you need a high degree of precision or want to work around the brow’s perimeter.
A pencil is by far the most versatile brow product. Pencils can be used for a number of different looks, such as a sleek architectural look, a faux fluffy brow or an ombre eyebrow. Healy says that it’s all in how you apply the product and blend it out. The two most common ways to apply the product are by drawing hair-like strokes, or by shading the entire eyebrow.
Holmes adds there are two types of pencils: twist-up or manual sharpen. Both versions are user-friendly, she says, because they have a waxy or chalky quality that makes them easy to blend. The fine-tipped pencils work best to add realistic-looking hair. Wide-tipped or angle pencils work better for filling in large areas or designing a full set of eyebrows.
Brow Powder
Brow powders are compacts that look like pressed eyeshadows and are used to fill the eyebrows. The look is matte and incredibly soft on the skin. The expert says that brow powders are great for creating the ombre look, where the powders are lighter at the front of the face and darker at the back. Healy says that a powder is the best way to achieve a natural look and create the illusion of thicker brows. Healy recommends Joey Healy Luxe Eyebrow Powder, Natural and soft Definition.
When applying brow powders, the brush you use is important. Holmes says that an angled brush can be used to push powder onto the skin.
How To Choose Between Brow Gel, Brow Pencil and Brow Powder
Personal Preference
Healy says that the type of product to use is determined by your own personal preferences and your eyebrows’ nature. Some people prefer pencils simply because they are more familiar with them.
Experts say pencils work well if you’re looking to add more detail and structure to your existing eyebrows. Gels are great for people with coarse hair, or those who want to achieve an un-madeup look. They will hold the shape. Powder can also be used to rejuvenate brows that are aging. It provides a natural, pigmented look.
Types of Skin and Hair
The type of hair and skin you have can also influence the type of eyebrow product that you choose. Holmes explains that people with oily or dry skin will have more success using a waxier pencil or liquid brow pen, while those with oily or dry skin may find it easier to use a pencil or powder. All skin types can apply brow gels, as long as the hair is visible. “Thick hair may benefit from a sheer tinted brow gel, while fine hair will benefit from a thicker or fibrous brow gel that can bulk it up in a 3-dimensional manner.”
Select the shade that matches your eyebrows
It’s important to choose the correct shade for your eyebrows. Look at your natural eyebrow color and match the undertone. Is it warm or cool? Honey blonde or auburn? Healy suggests. Don’t go overboard; less is better. Choose the lighter color and then build it up.